Unplanned landing in Ionia field

Daniel Sazhin of New York had an unplanned landing while competing in the Region 6 North Super Regional Soaring Contest hosted by Benz Aviation. Sazhin, a 19-year-old who was flying a glider, said that this is his 13th unplanned landing.

Daniel Sazhin of New York had an unplanned landing while competing in the Region 6 North Super Regional Soaring Contest hosted by Benz Aviation. Sazhin, a 19-year-old who was flying a glider, said that this is his 13th unplanned landing.

The unplanned landing took place on Jerry and Joan Blundy's field at 3975 N. Stage Road.

After landing, Sazhin approached Otto Ruehs and Chad Fairbrother who were working on the property at the time.

"He came up to me and asked when the property owners would be home and I told him they were down at their cabin so I drove him there," said Ruehs.

According to Jerry Blundy, he saw Ruehs and Sazhin approaching on the golf cart, then Sazhin came up to him, shook his hand and introduced himself. Afterward, the men helped Sazhin move the glider closer to the road so it would be easier to load into the trailer.

"We have had cars roll into our yard before, but this was the first time we have had a glider land in our field," said Jerry Blundy.

According to Sazhin, he was competing when a change in thermals underneath the glider caused him to land in the field.

"Gliding is a very controlled and fun experience and it's very safe if it's done correctly. Landing in fields is not uncommon," said Sazhin.

For Sazhin, this is just one of many competitions he will be involved in this summer. Prior to competing in Ionia, he competed in Pennsylvania and Daytona and will be headed to New Mexico later this summer.

Competitors earn 500 points for making it back to the airport and then earn a number out of 500 points based on their time in comparison to the first person back at the airport.

After landing, Sazhin contacted members of the competition to assist him with taking the glider apart and hauling it back to the Ionia Airport. He was assisted by fellow competitor Sean Fidler of Royal Oak and Ethan Hobbs of Chicago. Hobbs was at the competition as part of the crew for another competitor.